[ad_1]
Manchester United are close to missing out on Christopher Nkunku with Chelsea finalising personal terms with the RB Leipzig star, reputed journalist Fabrizio Romano reports.
The Red Devils have been keen admirers of the France international and he was initially recommended to the hierarchy when Ralf Rangnick took charge as the interim boss.
There has since been regular speculation linking him with United, but it now appears Chelsea are in pole position to secure his services with their ‘excellent relationship’ with Leipzig.
The player has already undergone a medical and agreed terms over a long-term deal, and Romano has now revealed that the Blues will proceed to negotiate on the transfer fee.
Nkunku signed a new deal earlier this year which includes a €60 million release clause (active next summer), but the Blues are prepared to pay more to secure a pre-agreement.
In this way, they plan to pay the fee for Nkunku over a number of years instead of a one-time payment which would be the case if they are to activate his current buy-out clause.
United should have been pro-active in Nkunku pursuit
United should have been pro-active in the pursuit of Nkunku. They have now been outwitted by the Blues, who managed to conduct a secret medical with the player last month.
The Blues are now firm favourites to land the versatile attacker. It only appears a matter of time before they confirm a formal agreement to bring the Frenchman to Stamford Bridge.
This would obviously be a big blow for United, considering Nkunku is one of the best talents in European football. He has bagged a stunning 43 goals and 21 assists since last season.
United should take the setback on Nkunku as a learning curve and ensure that they don’t lose again.
Similar to Nkunku, Borussia Dortmund’s Jude Bellingham has been another player regularly linked, but there will be a fierce bidding battle for his services at the end of the campaign.
United will need Champions League football to persuade the youngster, but should engage in early transfer talks such that a deal is in place if or when they qualify for the competition.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
<!–
–>
[ad_2]
Source link
